Our Charter

MARYLAND ALLIANCE FOR JUSTICE REFORM (MAJR)

GROUP CHARTER

MAJR is a bipartisan, all-volunteer statewide alliance seeking legislative changes in Maryland’s correctional policies to support alternatives to incarceration, address inequities, and aid citizens returning from prison to lead productive lives, thus, strengthening families and communities.

Committees

MAJR, a volunteer organization has established six committees to help us focus on the most important issues of the day. MAJR was particularly active in the 2016 legislative session which adopted the Justice Reinvestment Act. Many measures on that Act became effective in October 2017. MAJR needs to monitor and report on how the Act is being implemented. Each of our committees has a significant role to play.

For more detail and contact information see the Front Door Workgroup page.

For more detail and contact information see the Behind-the-Walls workgroup page.

For more detail and contact information see the Back Door workgroup page.

How we work together

Overview:  Each of us brings unique strengths and perspectives to this work.  Our work is enhanced by learning from each other, building on one another’s ideas, and sharing responsibility for the group’s success.

Leadership:  Leadership takes many forms within MAJR. Those who are in formal leadership roles are responsible for inspiring, supporting, listening, and leading in ways that allow others to participate at their best.   Leadership focuses on bringing out the best in each person rather than being “in charge.”

Decision Making:  Rather than a majority rule approach, we seek a sense of unity about the best way forward for our group.   Whenever possible, broad input should be sought for decisions that have broad impact.  Recognizing that some decisions need to be made quickly, it is important that we empower those most involved or impacted by the decision to proceed–with support of the Steering Committee.

Accountability: We bring integrity, good intention, and honesty to our work as we represent MAJR in various capacities.   As individuals, we recognize that we are accountable to others in the group to follow through in a timely way on the commitments we make.  Equally, when other commitments stand in the way of completing a task, we let others know that we need help.  Those of us who are also leaders within organizations partnering with MAJR may be called upon to carefully balance roles.  As we encounter those challenging situations, we will articulate our concerns and seek clarity and support from the group.

Conflict:  Conflict is inevitable in any group, especially one that is intentional about bringing together people with diverse experiences and backgrounds.   When handled well, conflict provides the opportunity for learning, new ideas, greater understanding and growth.

When differences in viewpoints arise, we will try to:

  • Affirm the good intentions of all involved
  • Create safe space for individual viewpoints to be heard and understood
  • Examine how we each might contribute to resolution of the situation
  • Speak frankly and with care if dynamics of power and privilege need to be addressed
  • Provide support for all involved

Communication:  We recognize that effective and timely communication is very important to our work.  At the same time, our structure makes it challenging to identify who needs to be copied on emails, involved in meetings or decisions, and informed with the latest news.  As we solidify our structure, we want to continue to clarify this and find ways to streamline communication flow.

Minutes from meetings will be prepared and distributed to those invited / attending the meeting.  (e.g., Committee meeting minutes go to everyone on the committee even if they can’t attend).  Ideally minutes will be prepared and distributed within a week of the meeting.   Minutes should include action items, the names of those in attendance, and at least a brief description of meeting/agenda.  A copy of the minutes should be sent to the [e.g., Steering Committee Chair].

Process Guidelines for Meetings

In our meetings we agree to:

  • Treat each other with respect;
  • Speak respectfully and honestly
  • Listen to understand
  • Allow one person to speak at a time (avoid side conversations)
  • Ensure equal participation (provide room for those who are quieter to contribute their perspectives)
  • Question constructively
  • Focus on ideas, not people
  • Stay positive and moving forward

Reimbursement Policy

Anyone incurring expenses doing the work of MAJR may be reimbursed.  The request should include receipts for purchases or a detailed statement of mileage.  Mileage will be reimbursed at 23 cents/mile.  Time is never reimbursed.  Any equipment, printing, travel, meals, or other expense over $100 must be approved in advance by the treasurer.  Expenses over $500 must be approved by the Executive Committee.  Reimbursement is available for travel to committee or work group meetings for members of those committees/groups.  It is not available for attending general MAJR membership meetings or public meetings unless the person does so on MAJR business.

Send reimbursement requests to reimburse@ma4jr.org